Bunions Are Not Like Onion Bagels

What comes to mind when you hear the word bunion? Bunions always make me think of onion bagels for some reason. Many people think that bunions are callous-like spots that form on the bottoms of your feet, but this is not the case. They’re actually a bony projection that develops on the joint at the base of your big toe. Bunions are a very common ailment. There are more than 3 million cases per year in the US alone. Bunions are more common in females, and can last several months or years.

Common symptoms may include an outward bulge or bump at the base of the big toe, and corns or calluses on your toes. Swelling and redness on the skin around the big toe joint, and pain near the swollen area are also common problems that occur where bunions are present. This problem may result in limited mobility in the big toe, and general foot pain.

Bunions must be properly diagnosed by a physician. Typically, an x-ray of the foot is taken to identify the cause and severity of a bunion. In some cases, blood work may also be ordered to see if there is also arthritis present. The exact cause is unknown. However, several factors can contribute to this unpleasant ailment, including pressing of your big toe against your second toe. They can also be caused by wearing narrow or tight shoes, arthritis, and stress or injury to the foot.

In severe cases, a surgery called a bunionectomy or osteotomy may be performed. Treatment other than surgery may include anti-inflammatory medications, a change in footwear, and adding padded footwear to your shoes.You can also ice the area which reduces pain, soreness, and inflammation. If you need surgery, it’s likely that you will benefit from having physical therapy after your operation to help heal and strengthen your foot. We’ll have you feeling like you’ve got brand new feet in no time.